SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The number of never-been married adults in the US is at an all-time high. One in 5 people has never tied the knot; that’s up from one in 10 adults back in 1960. It could have something to do with the economy, or college debt weighing people down. Or perhaps it’s more about preferences.

Maybe singles simply aren’t finding what they’re looking for. According to new Pew research, an overwhelming majority of women say their number one priority when looking for a husband, before thoughts on kids or religious beliefs, is that he holds a steady job.

“No that doesn’t surprise me. A job is important and I don’t want to be the sole provider for the family. It’s definitely important to have a partner with a job and a good job is even better,” said Heidi Kay.

But it’s not a deal breaker for everyone.

“I think you gave to have someone you can trust. Someone you can communicate with. Someone who will be a good partner and dad,” said Laura D’Angelo.

More people are living together and even raising kids without walking down the aisle. Close to a quarter of millennials share a home with their significant other.

“A lot of people want to have a career. A steady job. Both men and women. It’s getting prolonged but I don’t think it’s a bad thing. People are getting themselves established before they get married,” said Stephanie Killian.

Back in 1960 the median ages for men and women to marry were 23 and 20; today the average groom and bride are 29 and 27.